Metal finishes offer far more than good looks. They protect underlying substrates, improve cleanability and help to meet the NZ Building Code’s durability requirements. From mirror-polished stainless handrails to intentionally rusted Corten cladding, the choice of finish transforms both performance and aesthetic. ArchiPro showcases the full spectrum of different metal finishes, including brushed, black, antique, iridescent and even waxed coatings, so you can specify with confidence.

Metal finishes bring depth, colour and lasting protection to every surface-from feature walls to tapware. Whether you’re after a brushed aluminium splashback, blackened steel balustrade or antique brass detailing, ArchiPro connects you with New Zealand’s leading suppliers and fabricators. Explore specifications, view real-life project imagery and request quotes in seconds.

Main types of metal surface finishing

Mechanical finishes – grinding, polishing and buffing to achieve satin, brushed or mirror grades. Refer to a metal surface finish chart when comparing Ra values.
Chemical finishes – acid etching, anodising or passivation for enhanced corrosion resistance.
Conversion coatings – black oxide, phosphate or patination for colour and texture, including popular black metal finishes.
Metallic finish paints – factory-applied or on-site systems such as hammer-tone, rust-effect or iridescent sprays.
Protective waxes and oils – beeswax and linseed oil offer a low-sheen, food-safe option for indoor steel and brass.

1. Performance environment

Coastal projects demand higher corrosion resistance than inland builds. Stainless 316 with an electropolished finish, or duplex powder-coating systems, are typical solutions.

2. Visual intent

A brushed metal finish diffuses light and hides fingerprints, making it ideal for kitchens, lift cars and joinery. An antique metal finish adds heritage charm to lighting or tapware, while a controlled rusted metal finish delivers an industrial edge to façades.

3. Maintenance commitment

High-gloss mirror polishing looks spectacular but shows every mark; a textured hammered spray paint may be more forgiving in high-traffic commercial spaces.

Where metal finishes are used

Architectural façades and rain-screen cladding
Interior wall & ceiling panels – link to wall and ceiling finishes
Floor trims and inlays – see flooring options
Wet-area feature walls alongside tiles and stone
Custom benchtops that pair with solid surface materials
Noise-damping panels combined with acoustic finishes
Clear coats, stains and sealers – browse stains & treatments
Decorative hardware, handles and lighting fixtures

Mechanical polishing: how to finish metal to a mirror shine

Start with coarse abrasives (120 grit), progressively move to 400-800 grit, then buff with a sisal mop and rouge. Final electropolishing removes microscopic peaks for a true mirror.

Chemical patination: getting that antique brass tone

A diluted liver-of-sulphur bath darkens copper alloys; controlled burnishing then reveals warmth on raised areas.

Spray systems: achieving a consistent metallic finish paint

HVLP guns or aerosol products like hammered finish metal paint provide fast coverage. Always apply an etch primer first to maximise adhesion.

Working with suppliers

From specialist Christchurch metal finishers servicing Canterbury’s construction boom to boutique patinators in the Far North, ArchiPro vets every partner for quality and reliability. Use project filters to sort by location, certifications and lead time. Need inspiration? Browse metallic finish photos uploaded by professionals across the country.

Compliance snapshot

Under Clause B2 of the NZ Building Code, structural and exterior metalwork must achieve a minimum 15-year durability in most situations. Confirm that your selected finish, be it galvanised or powder-coated, meets exposure-zone demands. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment provides detailed tables on acceptable solutions (building.govt.nz).

Next steps

Ready to specify? Explore our full catalogue of products, shortlist your preferred metal finishes, then request quotes or samples in a click. ArchiPro makes it simple to move from concept to completed project-seamlessly, securely and all in one place.